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The European Union clearly states that the conditions for a peaceful settlement of the war should be determined by Ukraine alone, and any Russian “referendums” in the temporarily occupied territories are null and void and illegal. This was stated by the European Commission spokesperson Anita Hipper during a briefing in Brussels on 24 March, Ukrinform reports.
The EU’s comment was a response to a statement by US Special Representative Steve Witkoff, who hinted at the need to “take into account” Russia’s position on the occupied territories in potential negotiations. In response, Hipper emphasised:
“The EU’s position is clear: Ukraine must determine the terms of the negotiations, and nothing can be decided without Ukraine’s participation.”
She also stressed that Russia cannot be trusted in the negotiation process, recalling the recent attacks that killed three people, including a five-year-old child.
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“Referendums” at gunpoint
The EU unequivocally condemns the so-called “referendums” organised by Russia in the occupied territories of Ukraine. Hipper called them “a total sham” as they were held under duress, in the presence of armed military personnel, and without any democratic standards.
“We have not recognised and will not recognise any of the results of these illegal votes,” the spokeswoman stressed.
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Support that doesn’t stop
Anita Hipper stressed that the European Union remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.
She also recalled that on 20 March, at the European Council summit, member states reaffirmed this position unanimously.
The EU not only provides Ukraine with military, economic and humanitarian aid, but also consistently puts pressure on Russia with sanctions – 16 packages of restrictions have been adopted so far, and a new one is being prepared.
“We will not stop. The EU will provide more support to Ukraine than ever before,” concluded Hipper.
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At a time when there are attempts to question Ukraine’s territorial integrity or force it to negotiate on the aggressor’s terms, the European Union’s position is clear: any decision is up to Ukraine.
